What should I know about buying a DNA test?

In this insightful interview, genetic counselor Andy McCarty discusses the rise of private practice in genetics, the nuances of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, and how to interpret results responsibly. Learn about access, misconceptions, and the importance of professional guidance in genetic testing.

Key Takeaways:

Not all genetic testing is the same

Verify results with clinical-grade testing

Consult a genetic counselor for interpretation of results

Misleading results can impact your health decisions

Guest Bio:

Andrew McCarty is a genetic counselor focused on bringing accessible, evidence-based genetic services to patients and healthcare teams. As founder of Clover Genetics, he works across specialties to interpret genetic test results, design patient-centered counseling pathways, and advise clinicians on appropriate test selection and follow-up. Andrew has a pragmatic approach: he prioritizes clear communication, action-oriented recommendations, and realistic expectations for what genetic information can  and cannot tell us.

Resources:

Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you

Clover Genetics, Andrew McCarty’s practice

Keywords: genetic counseling, direct-to-consumer testing, private practice, genetic results interpretation, healthcare access, genetic variants, clinical vs consumer testing